Today, the Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs held an oversight hearing on promoting affordable and reliable energy sources for United States territories. Subcommittee Chair Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) issued the following statement in response:

"Congress must ensure that territories are able to utilize the energy resources that best suit their specific needs and desires. Not just the energy resources that the Biden Administration believes should be used. American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands need reliable and cost-efficient energy sources, yet the Biden Administration has continued to prioritize unreliable renewable energy and grid infrastructure such as solar and wind over reliable and affordable liquified natural gas, coal, and base load power options. The Insular Areas deserve self-determination and federal policies that do not promote energy poverty."

Background

The Biden administration’s sole prioritization of renewable energy sources, along with restrictions on liquified natural gas (LNG) and other baseload energy sources, have driven up utility costs for Americans across the states and territories. Territory residents in particular feel the effects of these high costs, as they pay among the highest rates for utilities in the U.S. while having some of the lowest income levels.

The Department of the Interior (DOI) has shown growing favoritism towards specific energy sources, namely solar, wind, hydroelectric and geothermal. There is growing concern that this preference is overshadowing the proven reliability of more conventional options such as LNG, coal, biomass and others. The administration’s predisposition risks stifling fair competition and innovation within the energy sector if left unchecked.

By fostering an environment of fair competition and embracing diverse energy solutions, the U.S. can empower territories to chart their own energy futures. Today's hearing was an opportunity for members to hear from administration officials, representatives from Insular Areas, and energy policy experts to learn more on how the prioritization on renewables is limiting the territories from accessing affordable and reliable energy.